How do you pick your wedding photographer?
ADVICE FOR PICKING YOUR PERFECT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
So, you’ve come to the part of your wedding planning that a lot of couples find rather daunting... choosing your wedding photographer! It feels like there is a never-ending list of options (have you ever tried Googling ‘wedding photographer’?!) and a whole heap of different descriptions (reportage? Fine art?) to get to grips with. So how the heck do you choose? Well, my handy guide is a good place to start!
PHOTOGRAPHY STYLE
Every wedding photographer has their own unique style of shooting. That’s where those descriptive words come in - fine art, editorial, traditional, alternative, reportage/documentary - it can feel overwhelming. Firstly, ignore the words and look at the photos. Do they appeal to you? Do you LOVE them? Once you start to find the images you’re drawn to then you’ll be able to start narrowing down the style you like.
It’s also worth keeping in mind that style isn’t just about the look of the photographs but also the approach to capturing them in the first place. Some photographers are more in your face on the day and like to direct the photographs. Others prefer a more unobtrusive approach. Neither is wrong, it’s just different and depends on what appeals to you. Many styles do crossover and it’s important to go with a photographer who has a style and approach to the day that you feel is right for you.
I have a documentary, alternative style of shooting for the majority of the day. I'm super relaxed and informal and I tell the story of your wedding, all the fun and emotion, just as it happens. I shoot candidly and unobtrusively, no taking over your day or bossing people around! I do shoot details, but I won’t be hanging your outfit in a tree (mostly because the idea of touching your stuff terrifies me, like seriously what if a bird pooped on it?!)
I also love to get a bit creative and set aside some time for couple portraits. This is essentially 10 - 20 minutes where the three of us take time out from the party to get some gorgeous photos of you both together. It’s basically a chance for you two to have a breather and actually see each other without loads of people around!
Again, I keep this part of your day really relaxed. I like to watch a couple’s natural interactions. I look for light, find my backdrop and move you in. I might give you some gentle directions to make sure you’re in the best position for the light but for the most part I’ll just be chatting away with you as we shoot - I’ll throw in a few jokes to get you laughing! This way I get the most natural, real photos and you two don’t feel awkward.
I approach my couple shoots this way because I want to capture you just as you are and make sure you’re feeling comfortable. As my favourite jumper says, ‘be more you’. This is always my aim.
Nearly all of my couples tell me that they hate having their photo taken, and that's totally ok! My goal is to put you at complete ease, and believe me I am pretty darn good at it! I definitely won’t be forcing you into a pose that feels unnatural.
I‘m also happy to shoot relaxed and informal family / friend group shots. I keep them nice and laid back, nothing too formal or fussy. I send all of my booked couples a welcome pack with a guide to my wedding photography - and this includes helpful tips including advice on group shots (so you can get back to your party quicker whilst still getting some family favourites).
Apart from these two, rather short, time outs I’m roaming around, having a giggle with your guests and seeking out the all the love, joy, and emotion. Your wedding is about everyone you love coming together to celebrate with you and I’m there to capture that.
RESEARCH
Wedding blogs are a great place to do research on different styles of photography. They’re also fantastic for general wedding inspiration and ideas.
There are lots of wedding blogs out there so there’ll definitely be one that suits your style. Don’t be afraid to get really specific when you are Googling - “fun alternative wedding photographer” - and see what you can find!
Ask your friends for recommendations and check out what other couples say about the photographer(s) you are interested in. Wedding fairs can also be a great place to find your photographer (and other suppliers). I'm a huge fan of the Eclectic Wedding Extravaganza wedding fair. It’s perfect for alternative couples and it's held in Birmingham. I’ve also heard fab things about The Un-Wedding Show which for 2024 is being held in Manchester, London, Birmingham and as they quote on their website ‘You won't find anyone selling weight-loss pills, teeth-whitening kits, or chair covers at our events’.
SHORTLIST
Once you’ve put together your shortlist of photographers (or maybe you’ve already narrowed it down to ‘the one’) it’s time to start thinking about the finer details…
Coverage: Are you looking for a photographer who will head off after speeches? Or perhaps you want someone who will be partying on the dancefloor with you! Think about your wedding day timings and what you really want covered.
Budget: Couples spend varying amounts on their wedding photography, it all comes down to priorities within your budget and what means the most to you. If you find your dream photographer but they are out of your price range then have a chat to them. Be open with your photographer and they may be able to offer shorter coverage or take something out of an existing package to make it work for you.
What you want: Do you want an all-singing, all-dancing wedding photography package? Something you can customise? Don’t forget that prints and albums can be purchased at a later date if your budget is tight. I offer prints and albums as an optional extra and my couples don’t need to order anything at the time of booking. A lot of them choose to purchase an album after their wedding or order their prints online through their gallery, but I make it clear that they are under no obligation to do so.
Added extras: Would you like two photographers? Or maybe an upbeat highlight film of your day? Perhaps you love the idea of a photo booth for your evening party! It’s always a good idea to see if any of the wedding photographers you’re looking at offer any additional extras to their photography packages. I can add a second shooter to any booking and will happily chat to couples about if I think one is needed for their day or just a ‘nice to have’. Couples love my mini wedding films as well. These are short, super fun highlights set to licensed music. They are a brilliant addition to your photographs and absolutely filled with joy! You can check out my wedding films here.
GETTING IN TOUCH WITH A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
So, you’ve got your list...now it’s time to get in touch!
From my point of view, I love to know as much about the couple as possible. I love hearing how you met, all about the proposal, what makes you both tick. And, of course, I want to hear all about your wedding plans, from the flowers you’ve chosen to your ideas for the styling. If you’re planning some entertainment, like sumo wrestling, for your guests (please someone do this soon) tell me all about it!
Once you’ve reached out then I’ll set up a Skype or phone call. This is a great chance for you to find out more about my informal approach and fun style and we can chat about your day. On your wedding day you want to feel like you’re with a friend (who can take awesome photos). You’re going to spend so much time with your photographer!
Then it’s decision time! Photography is really important so you definitely don’t want to rush in, however it’s always worth remembering that suppliers can get booked up very quickly. So try not to leave it too long, you don’t want to miss out on your fave!
BEFORE YOU BOOK
HURRAH! You’ve found THE ONE. No, no, not your partner for life (you’ve already ticked that box, that’s why you’re here!) but the wedding photographer that you love. So what happens next?
Before handing over your booking fee, here are few things to check out:
Are they insured?: Any wedding photographer worth their salt will be fully insured. I’m covered for public liability, professional indemnity and equipment. Being prepared is crucial.
Their portfolio: Have you looked at (and fallen in love with) a lot of their work? Check for consistency and their ability to shoot in different conditions such as low light. It’s always worth asking to see any weddings that are similar to yours, for example a festival wedding or a more urban, city one.
Equipment: Now, camera brand doesn’t matter. There’s no need to ask about that (unless you are genuinely interested!) However it’s important to know they have back up equipment. Cameras can break or malfunction or be eaten by a dog (the least likely scenario at a wedding, but you NEVER know). Do they back their images up? How long will they keep copies of your pictures after they have delivered them to you? Find out how I roll with this in my FAQ section.
Their illness policy: It would take a LOT for a wedding photographer to miss a wedding but find out their policy for if the worst does happen and they’re too ill to attend. I’ve got a network of excellent photographers I know I can call upon if needed. I’m also a member of the Guild of Photographers which gives me access to professional wedding photographers all over the UK.
Contract: Please, please, PLEASE make sure your photographer sends you a contract before expecting you to pay your booking fee. This protects both parties and is an absolute must. Read it through carefully before you agree and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure of anything.
HAPPY DAYS
Whoop! You’ve booked your photographer and you’re all sorted. Tick it off your list, get yourself a well deserved glass of vino and relax!
I hope this little guide has helped you in your search for a wedding photographer. Feel free to get in touch and ask me anything. And if I sound like your perfect fit then you know what to do and we can wander off into the sunset together.
I'm a Birmingham based fun and relaxed documentary style wedding photographer. I'm all about capturing the story of your day just as it was, if I sound like the kinda photographer for you then lets chat! I cover the Midlands, the Cotswolds, Warwickshire, Worcestershire as well working UK Wide. Basically I’ll go wherever your wedding is!
